The 'Soul Train' legacy and brand are of the utmost importance to me and to 'Soul Train's' millions of fans. After years of offers, I feel the time is now finally right to pass the torch.

The program entered national syndication and moved to Los Angeles the following year. Cornelius sold the show to MadVision Entertainment in 2008.

Donald Cortez "Don" Cornelius (September 27 1936 – February 1 2012) was an American television show host and producer who was best known as the creator of the nationally syndicated dance/music franchise Soul Train which he hosted from 1971 until 1993.